Manasija’s Samasrava festival: A celebration of culture and dance

Manasija’s Samasrava festival: Manasija is set to host Samasrava: An Ode to Classical Heritage, a festival dedicated to celebrating India’s rich classical dance heritage.

The event will feature mesmerising performances by acclaimed artists from across the country, showcasing the depth and diversity of Indian classical dance forms. Supported by the Union Government’s Ministry of Culture, the festival will take place on December 10 at Stein Auditorium, India Habitat Centre, New Delhi, starting at 7 PM.

The performances include Odissi by Arunima Ghosh and her troupe, along with YSNA Awardee Vinod Kevin Bachan; Bharatanatyam by Arohi Munshi; and Kathak by Diksha Rawat.

Each performance highlights the essence of India’s cultural ethos, blending rhythm, expression, and storytelling.

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Arunima’s Odissi recital, inspired by Adi Shankaracharya’s Jagannath Ashtakam, weaves a tapestry of devotional scenes. From serene morning prayers to the vibrant energy of the Rathayatra, her performance pays homage to Lord Jagannath and reflects her personal heritage.

Bachan will present a solo dance drama titled Devi Mahamaya: The Rise of the Divine Shakti, celebrating the empowerment of divine energy.

Arohi Munshi will perform two traditional Bharatanatyam compositions choreographed by her mother, Lata Munshi. The first piece, Shringara Lahiri by Lingaraj Urs, is set in Raagam Neelambari and Adi Taalam, while the second, Krishna Ni Begane Baro by Vyasatirtha, is set in Raagam Yamuna Kalyani and Mishra Chaapu Taalam.

Diksha Rawat’s Kathak performance will begin with Taal Ashtamangal, an intricate 11-beat cycle choreographed by Uma Dograji. The presentation includes uthaan, thaat, and aamad in vilambit laya, set to Raag Bhinna Shadaj.

Her second offering is an abhinaya piece, a Banaras Gharana thumri titled Dagar Beech Kaise Chalu Mangdado Kanhaiyya Be Beer.

The event will also honour two stalwarts of Indian art and culture with the prestigious Manasija Samman 2024. Avinash Pasricha, a legendary performing arts photographer, and Vidushi Kamalini Nagarajan Dutt, a distinguished scholar and cultural advocate, will be felicitated for their extraordinary contributions to the realm of performing arts.

The festival will be inaugurated by Pranaame Bhagawati, Director of Kathak Kendra, New Delhi, who will grace the occasion as the chief guest.

Organised by Manasija, a non-profit founded by Arunima and Sanjit Debroy, the festival underscores the organisation’s commitment to preserving and promoting Indian classical dance and music through education, performances, and outreach programs.

According to the organisers, Samasrava is more than a performance; it is a cultural odyssey that bridges the gap between tradition and modernity.

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Each dance form tells a timeless story of love, devotion, and human experiences, reaffirming the relevance of classical arts in today’s world.

When: December 10, 7 PM onwards

Where: Stein Auditorium, India Habitat Centre, New Delhi